NOVEL WEB Chapter 10: Princess Phoenia(1)
Author's Note:
So, I've got an idea on how to release chapters more frequently. One week, I'll post a chapter every day, and the next week, there won't be any at all. Also, I'm sorry for being away for so long. As compensation, I'll release two chapters.
---
On the day the academy students witnessed an unbelievable display of magic—one from which a strangely transformed Ed emerged—it became a moment engraved in their memories. But what shocked them most were the changes that had taken place within Ed himself.
For those who had encountered him before, he was almost unrecognizable. His body had become stronger and more muscular, his facial features noticeably altered. Yet, the most striking transformation was in his eyes. In the past, they had always reflected nothing but malice, mockery, and disdain for those around him. It was precisely because of this that Ed had never been able to connect with most of the academy's students. He had always been alone, and many preferred to stay out of his way.
The reason was obvious: Ed was the heir of the great Rothstaylor family. That name commanded both respect and fear. Fortunately, soon after his deception was exposed by Princess Phoenia, the truth came to light. The girl had revealed his lies before the entire academy, and the consequences were swift—Ed was not only cast out of his family, but he also found himself on the verge of expulsion.
However, after recent events, the situation took an unexpected turn. The astonishing magic, which many believed had been his doing, led the academy's administration to reconsider their decision. The headmaster personally postponed his expulsion, giving him a chance to complete the semester. Moreover, if Ed managed to finish it with good grades, he would even be allowed to stay at the university.
Princess Phoenia was absolutely against this decision. She despised evil and deception, and her innate ability—the "Insight" magic—allowed her to sense both of these things. She had always felt them strongly within the Rothstaylor family, and most of all in its head, Crepin Rothstaylor. Every time she was near him, an overwhelming sense of darkness engulfed her. Deep down, she even suspected that he might have some connection to demons.
And then, on that fateful day, when she saw Ed's magic, alarm bells rang in her mind. For the first time, she sensed something truly unusual about him, and a terrifying thought crossed her mind—what if he really had made a deal with demons to obtain such overwhelming power?
The idea wouldn't leave her alone. If her suspicions were correct, then many students at the academy could be in grave danger. Ed was strong, and if he had truly allied himself with demons, who knew what he was capable of? That was why she had hoped for his expulsion to happen as soon as possible. But to her disappointment, the headmaster had made a completely different decision.
Despite the protests of many students, he had postponed Ed's expulsion, giving him a chance to prove his worth. The headmaster's decision was final—even if Princess Phoenia had personally begged him to reconsider, it would have had no effect.
Realizing that she would have to act on her own, Phoenia began considering her options. She knew where Ed was likely to be—in the forest near the academy. He had been disappearing there frequently as of late, and if her suspicions were correct, that was where he might be hiding the truth about his power.
Phoenia resolved to go there alone, despite the fierce objections of her loyal bodyguard, Claire.
"This is reckless!" Claire exclaimed, blocking the princess's path. "If he really is involved with demons, going to him alone is suicide!"
But Phoenia was unwavering.
"If I don't return," she stated coldly, "then Ed and the Rothstaylor family truly are connected to demons. And in that case, my father—the Emperor—will wipe them out completely."
Her voice was firm, but deep inside, she knew this was a dangerous gamble.
Still, she refused to dwell on it too much. If she started doubting herself, she might reconsider the entire plan—and that was something she could not allow.
The Journey into the Forest
Phoenia set off into the forest.
It was much larger than she had expected. The branches of the trees intertwined to form a dense canopy, barely allowing any sunlight through. The air was heavy, damp, filled with the scent of moss and decaying leaves. Insects tormented her with every step, forcing her to swat at them in irritation.
After an hour of searching, exhaustion began to set in. She wasn't used to walking for so long, especially through rough terrain. But she wasn't about to give up.
And then—luck.
In the distance, among the trees, she spotted a figure.
Ed.
He stood with his back to her, completely unaware of her presence.
Phoenia held her breath for a moment, forcing herself to remain calm. Straightening her posture, she took on a serious expression and strode toward him with firm steps.
"I found you," she said loudly.
Ed froze.
---
Author's Note:
I hope you enjoyed this chapter! Expect the next one within three hours.